I’m about to walk out the door and make my way to Citi Field for the Mets introduction of Jason Bay. I’m writing a story about it for tomorrow’s newspaper, but as far as the Yankees and the blog are concerned, there’s not much connection.

Bay is being introduced as a Met, Adrian Beltre is the Red Sox new third baseman, and Matt Holliday seems closer than ever to a deal with the Cardinals. Those are three pretty big names in this free agent market, but none seemed particularly likely for the Yankees. Brian Cashman has said for weeks that he wouldn’t go after another “big piece” this winter, and Beltre plays the same position as a guy named Alex.

What these signings might do for the Yankees is loosen the rest of the free agent market, setting the stage for other pieces to come off the board. At this point — assuming the Holliday rumors are true — Johnny Damon is probably the top position player available.